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Winter Weather: Safe in the Snow

Health Watch is a Public Service of the University News Bureau and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about dealing with winter weather. Previously, we talked about the dangers of being caught out in the cold. It’s not just low temperatures that can pose a hazard in wintertime.

Snow and ice can increase your chances of falling and being injured. Dr. Kurt Kleinschmidt, an expert in emergency medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says falling due to slippery ice or snow is very common and can lead to broken bones or more serious injuries. You can help prevent injuries by keeping your sidewalk, outside paths and steps clear of ice and snow. When you’re walking in snowy or icy conditions, be careful and use handrails when possible. It may be safer to walk in the grass than on icy sidewalks. Using ladders outside in icy conditions is particularly dangerous.

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January 2012

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